Transcriptome Regulation Mechanisms Difference between Female and Male Buchloe dactyloides in Response to Drought Stress and Rehydration

Drought, a pervasive global challenge, significantly hampers plant growth and crop yields, with drought stress being a primary inhibitor. Among resilient species, <i>Buchloe dactyloides</i>, a warm-season and dioecious turfgrass, stands out for its strong drought resistance and minimal maintenance requirements, making it a favored choice in ecological management and landscaping. However, there is limited research on the physiological and molecular differences in drought resistance between male and female <i>B. dactyloides.</i> To decipher the transcriptional regulation dynamics of these sexes in response to drought, RNA-sequencing analysis was conducted using the 'Texoka' cultivar as a model. A 14-day natural drought treatment, followed by a 7-day rewatering period, was applied. Notably, distinct physiological responses emerged between genders during and post-drought, accompanied by a more pronounced differential expression of genes (DEGs) in females compared to males. Further, KEGG and GO enrichment analysis revealed different DEGs enrichment pathways of <i>B. dactyloides</i> in response to drought stress. Analysis of the biosynthesis and signaling transduction pathways showed that drought stress significantly enhanced the biosynthesis and signaling pathway of ABA in both female and male <i>B. dactyloides</i> plants, contrasting with the suppression of IAA and JA pathways. Also, we discovered <i>BdMPK8-like</i> as a potential enhancer of drought tolerance in yeast, highlighting novel mechanisms. This study demonstrated the physiological and molecular mechanisms differences between male and female <i>B. dactyloides</i> in response to drought stress, providing a theoretical basis for the corresponding application of female and male <i>B. dactyloides.</i> Additionally, it enriches our understanding of drought resistance mechanisms in dioecious plants, opening avenues for future research and genetic improvement.